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Frequently Asked Questions

• How much does Live Scan cost in Florida?

  The cost of a Live Scan in Florida typically ranges from $50 to $90, depending on the provider and the type of background check required. This includes a Live Scan service fee (usually $20–$50), a Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) fee of about $24, and an FBI fee of around $13 if a federal background check is needed. You can visit the Certifix Live Scan website to find a nearby provider and confirm the exact cost for your specific application.

• Where can I find a Live Scan service provider near me in Florida?

  You can easily find a Live Scan provider in Florida by visiting the Certifix Live Scan website. Certifix offers a nationwide network of locations, and any of them can submit fingerprints for Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) or Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) background checks. Just enter your zip code or city into the search tool to find a nearby provider. Once you select a location, you’ll see whether it requires online enrollment, allows for appointment scheduling, or accepts walk-ins. Be sure to call ahead to confirm hours and availability before visiting.

• How long is a Live Scan valid in Florida?

  In Florida, a Live Scan submission is only valid for the specific purpose and agency it was originally submitted for. Each Live Scan is tied to a unique ORI number, and the fingerprints are processed solely for that agency’s background check request—whether for employment, licensing, or certification. Fingerprints are not stored for future use or transferable to other agencies. If you need a background check for a different job or purpose, you’ll need to complete a new Live Scan. To get started, visit the Certifix Live Scan website to schedule or enroll.

• How do I submit a Live Scan in Florida?

  To submit a Live Scan in Florida, start by obtaining the correct ORI number from the agency requesting your background check. Then, visit the Certifix Florida locations page to find a nearby provider. Some locations require you to enroll online, while others allow walk-ins or appointment scheduling. We recommend calling ahead to confirm availability and instructions for your chosen location.

  If you enroll online, you don’t need to bring any documents or make a payment at the location—you’ll be prepaid and simply need to show your QR code at check-in. For walk-in or scheduled appointments, bring a valid photo ID, your ORI number, and be prepared to pay at the time of service (usually $50–$100).

  After your fingerprints are submitted to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE)—and the FBI, if required—you’ll receive a Transaction Control Number (TCN) to track your results. The background check results will be sent directly to the requesting agency, usually within 1 to 5 business days.

  For out-of-state applicants, online enrollment is required, and you can complete everything by selecting a location and service on the Certifix website.

• How do I send my fingerprint card to the Florida Board of Nursing?

  If you’re applying to the Florida Board of Nursing and can’t visit a Live Scan location in Florida, you don’t need to send a fingerprint card by mail. Instead, you can use Certifix’s nationwide Live Scan service, which allows you to capture your fingerprints electronically and have them securely transmitted to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE)—no need to be in Florida or deal with fingerprint cards. Just visit the Certifix service selection page, choose the Florida Live Scan Submission (FDLE) option, and enter the correct ORI number for the Florida Board of Nursing. Once your prints are submitted, you’ll receive a Transaction Control Number (TCN) to track the status of your background check.

• How do I get my Live Scan results in Florida?

  In Florida, Live Scan results are not sent directly to you. Instead, they are sent to the agency or organization that requested your background check, such as an employer, licensing board, or government agency. After your fingerprints are submitted to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE)—and the FBI, if required—the results are reviewed and delivered directly to that agency. If you need to check the status or see the results, you’ll need to contact the requesting agency. You can also track the submission using your Transaction Control Number (TCN), which you receive after your appointment. Keep in mind, FDLE and the FBI do not provide background check results to individuals.

• How much does a Level 2 background check cost in Florida?

  A Level 2 background check in Florida typically costs between $75 and $100, depending on the provider. This includes the FDLE fee (about $24), the FBI fee (around $13), and a Live Scan service fee charged by the fingerprinting provider, which usually ranges from $40 to $60. The total covers both the fingerprinting process and the background check itself. You can find certified Live Scan providers and book an appointment through the Certifix website.

• How long does it take to complete a background check in Florida?

  Most background checks in Florida submitted via Live Scan are processed by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) within 24 to 72 hours, though it can take up to 5 days in some cases. If your check also includes an FBI submission, that can add another 3 to 5 days. Delays may occur due to high submission volume or poor-quality fingerprints that require resubmission. To avoid delays, ensure your fingerprints are captured clearly during your appointment. Results are sent directly to the requesting agency, such as a licensing board or employer.

• What is the difference between Live Scan and a standard background check?

  A Live Scan and a background check are related but distinct processes:

  1. Live Scan:
     • Live Scan is a digital method of capturing and submitting your fingerprints electronically to a government agency (e.g., the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, California DOJ, or FBI). It involves taking your fingerprints using a digital scanner, which then sends the fingerprint data to the relevant agency to perform a background check.
     • The Live Scan process itself does not provide background check results; it simply collects your fingerprints as part of the overall background check procedure.
  2. Background Check:
     • A background check is the process of reviewing an individual’s criminal history, employment history, or other relevant records, often for employment, licensing, or regulatory purposes.
     • The background check may be triggered by the submission of fingerprints via Live Scan, but it involves reviewing a person’s criminal records, court documents, or other databases to determine if they have any disqualifying history.
     • Background checks can also be conducted based on personal information alone, without the use of fingerprints, but fingerprints are more reliable for confirming identity.

  Summary:

  • Live Scan is the fingerprint capture method used to submit your fingerprints electronically for a background check.
  • A background check is the broader process of reviewing an individual’s records, often using the fingerprints collected through Live Scan to ensure accuracy.

• How do I get my TCN after completing a Florida Live Scan?

  The Transaction Control Number (TCN) is a unique number assigned to your fingerprints when they’re submitted for a Florida Live Scan. You’ll usually receive your TCN on a receipt or confirmation right after your appointment. If it’s not automatically provided, ask the technician before you leave. If you used Certifix, the TCN is typically printed on your receipt or emailed to you—if not, you can contact Certifix support to request it. You can also reach out to the Live Scan provider or the agency requesting your background check, as they may have access to the TCN. The TCN is important for tracking the status of your background check with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), so keep it for your records.

• Who needs Live Scan fingerprinting in Florida?

  Anyone required to complete a state or federal background check can obtain Live Scan fingerprinting in Florida. This includes job applicants in regulated fields like healthcare, education, childcare, security, real estate, and law enforcement, as well as individuals applying for state licenses, such as nurses, contractors, or private investigators. It’s also required for volunteers working with vulnerable populations, applicants for concealed carry permits, adoption or foster care, and certain immigration-related processes. Live Scan services are available through certified providers like Certifix Live Scan and some law enforcement agencies.

• What do I need to bring with me for Live Scan fingerprinting?

  For your Live Scan appointment, bring a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, passport, military ID, or green card. In states like California, you may also need a completed Request for Live Scan Service form, which includes details like your ORI number and the requesting agency’s information. Be prepared to pay the required fee, and confirm accepted payment methods—typically cash, card, check, or money order. If your agency or employer gave you a reference or application number, bring that too, along with any other required documents. Having everything ready helps ensure a smooth and efficient appointment.

• What do I need to bring to my Live Scan fingerprinting appointment?

  You’ll need to bring a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, passport, military ID, or green card. In states like California, you must also bring a completed Live Scan Request Form, which includes your ORI number and other agency details. Be prepared to pay the required fee, and check with your provider in advance to confirm accepted payment methods. If your employer or licensing agency gave you a reference or application number, bring that as well, along with any additional documents they may have provided.

• How long does the Live Scan fingerprinting process take?

  The Live Scan appointment itself is quick—usually 10 to 15 minutes to check your ID, complete the form, and capture your fingerprints. Once submitted, background check results typically take 1 to 5 days for the California DOJ or FDLE, and 3 to 5 days for the FBI (if required). Some agencies may take longer to review the results, and delays can occur if fingerprints are rejected due to poor quality and need to be resubmitted. In most cases, the full process takes a few days to two weeks from start to finish.

• What if my fingerprints are rejected by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE)?

  If the FDLE rejects your fingerprints, it’s usually due to poor image quality—such as smudging or incomplete prints—which prevents the system from processing them. In this case, the agency that requested your background check will be notified, and you may also receive a direct notice.

  You’ll typically have up to 90 days to resubmit your fingerprints, and FDLE allows one free reprint if the rejection was due to quality issues. To improve your chances the second time, be sure to go to an experienced Live Scan technician, wash and dry your hands beforehand, and avoid lotions right before your appointment. If your skin is very dry, apply a small amount of lotion well in advance to help avoid cracks.

  If the FBI is also involved, they may reject the prints too. If your fingerprints are rejected more than once, the agency may request an alternate method of background verification, such as a name-based check. Be sure to follow up with the requesting agency or your fingerprinting provider—like Certifix—for next steps and guidance.

• Can I use my Live Scan fingerprinting results for multiple purposes?

  No, Live Scan fingerprinting results cannot typically be used for multiple purposes. Each Live Scan submission is tied to a specific request or agency and is processed for a particular background check purpose. This is because the Originating Agency Identifier (ORI) number provided during the Live Scan process specifies which agency or organization will receive the fingerprint results. Different agencies may have different background check requirements.

  Here’s why Live Scan results are usually not transferable:

  1. 1. Specific Purpose:
        Each Live Scan fingerprint submission is tied to a specific background check purpose, such as for employment, licensing, or legal requirements. The results are sent only to the agency that requested them and cannot be shared with other organizations.
     2. Confidentiality:
        Due to privacy and security regulations, agencies are not allowed to share fingerprint results with other entities. If you need a background check for multiple purposes (e.g., applying for different licenses or jobs), you will need to undergo the Live Scan process again for each purpose.
     3. Agency-Specific Requirements:
        Different agencies have unique background check criteria, and the Live Scan submission will be tailored to meet the requirements of the specific agency requesting the check. This is why a fingerprint submission for one agency cannot usually fulfill the needs of another.

  If you need fingerprints for multiple purposes, you’ll need to complete the Live Scan process separately for each request. Each submission will be linked to the appropriate ORI number and agency that requires the background check.

• What are the benefits of using Live Scan Fingerprinting over traditional ink fingerprinting?

  Live Scan fingerprinting offers several advantages over traditional ink fingerprinting, particularly in terms of accuracy, convenience, and processing speed. Here are the key benefits:

  1. 1. Faster Processing:
        Live Scan captures fingerprints electronically, allowing them to be submitted instantly to the appropriate agency (such as the FBI or state agencies like the Florida Department of Law Enforcement). This eliminates the need for mailing fingerprint cards, significantly speeding up the background check process. Results are typically processed much faster than with ink fingerprinting.
     2. Higher Accuracy:
        Live Scan technology produces higher-quality fingerprint images compared to ink fingerprints, reducing the chances of smudges or poor-quality prints. This lowers the likelihood of rejected fingerprints, saving time and effort.
     3. Less Mess and More Convenience:
        Traditional ink fingerprinting involves physical ink and cards, which can be messy and require additional care to ensure the prints are legible. Live Scan is a clean, digital process with no ink involved, making it much more convenient for both the technician and the individual being fingerprinted.
     4. Real-Time Feedback:
        With Live Scan, fingerprint technicians can immediately see the quality of the fingerprints on the screen. This allows them to retake any prints that are unclear or incomplete, minimizing the chances of rejection.
     5. Electronic Submission:
        Live Scan fingerprints are transmitted electronically to the appropriate background check agency, reducing mailing delays and the risk of lost or damaged fingerprint cards. It also improves the security of the submission process by transmitting the data directly to the agency.
     6. Widespread Acceptance:
        Many state and federal agencies, including the FBI and state licensing boards, prefer or require Live Scan for background checks because of its reliability and efficiency. It is commonly used for professional licensing, employment screening, and various legal and regulatory purposes.

  Overall, Live Scan fingerprinting provides a faster, more accurate, and convenient solution for background checks compared to traditional ink fingerprinting.

• Is Live Scan fingerprinting required for all types of background checks in Florida?

  No, Live Scan fingerprinting isn’t required for all background checks in Florida, but it is mandatory for many state-regulated purposes. Professions like healthcare, real estate, teaching, childcare, and others often require Live Scan, with fingerprints submitted electronically to the FDLE and FBI. It’s also required for concealed carry permits, adoption and foster care, and volunteer or employment roles involving vulnerable populations. However, for some private background checks—like rental applications or basic employment screening—a name-based check may be enough. In some cases, fingerprint cards (FD-258) can be used instead, especially for federal or out-of-state purposes. Always check with the requesting agency to confirm what’s required for your specific situation.

• Where can I find a Live Scan fingerprinting service provider in Florida?

  The easiest way to find a Live Scan provider in Florida is through Certifix Live Scan. Certifix offers convenient locations across the state, and you can search by city or zip code, choose your service type (including Florida FDLE submissions), and book your appointment online. This ensures you’re working with a certified provider authorized to submit fingerprints directly to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). For fast and reliable service, visit the Certifix website and select Florida Live Scan Submission (FDLE) to get started.

• How can I obtain a fingerprint card in Florida?

  You can get a fingerprint card in Florida by visiting a certified provider like Certifix, which offers an FD-258 Fingerprint Card Printing Service. Your fingerprints will be captured digitally, printed on the card, and mailed directly to you. You can also enroll online for added convenience. Alternatively, many local law enforcement agencies provide ink fingerprinting services using the FD-258 card. You may also request fingerprint cards by mail from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). Once you have your completed card, be sure to fill it out accurately and submit it as instructed by the agency requesting your background check or license.

• Can I reuse a fingerprint card for multiple purposes?

  Yes, while the original fingerprint card cannot typically be reused once submitted, you can contact the Certifix support team to request a reprint of your fingerprint card for use with other application types. If you’ve already completed your fingerprints with Certifix, the support team can assist you in reprinting your fingerprints onto a new FD-258 card, which can then be submitted for a different application or purpose.

  Simply reach out to the Certifix support team for assistance with your reprint request.

• How many fingerprint cards are required for a concealed carry license in Florida?

  You only need one FD-258 fingerprint card to apply for a concealed carry license in Florida. The card must be completed by a certified fingerprint technician and submitted with your application to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). You can have your fingerprints taken at a local law enforcement agency or through a certified provider like Certifix. Be sure to follow FDACS instructions carefully to ensure proper submission and avoid delays.

• Are there any fees associated with obtaining fingerprint cards in Florida?

  Yes, there are fees. Certifix charges $40 for the first FD-258 fingerprint card and $10 for each additional card. You can pay online by credit card when enrolling through the Certifix service selection page. This service includes professional fingerprint capture and mailing of the completed card to you. If you’re submitting the card for a background check, license, or other official use, keep in mind that agencies like the FDLE or FBI may charge additional processing fees, so it’s best to confirm those costs with the requesting agency.

• How do I correctly fill out a fingerprint card in Florida?

  To fill out a fingerprint card correctly in Florida, use the standard FD-258 card, which you can get from a local law enforcement agency, Certifix, or the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). Fill in your personal details at the top, including your full name, date of birth, sex, race, height, weight, eye and hair color, Social Security number, citizenship, and place of birth. Include your ORI number if provided by the requesting agency. Leave the fingerprint section blank—this must be completed by a certified technician. Double-check your information, then submit the card with any required forms or fees.

  Want a faster option? You can skip the fingerprint card and submit your fingerprints electronically to FDLE using Certifix’s nationwide Live Scan service. Visit the Certifix service selection page and choose Florida Live Scan Submission (FDLE) to get started.

• How can I get fingerprint cards for firearm licensing in Florida?

  To get fingerprint cards for firearm licensing in Florida, you can visit a certified provider like Certifix Live Scan to have your fingerprints taken and printed on an FD-258 card. You can also enroll online using Certifix’s FD-258 Fingerprint Card Printing Service—your fingerprints will be captured and the card will be mailed to you. Some local law enforcement agencies also offer fingerprinting. Once you have your completed fingerprint card, submit it to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services as part of your firearm license application.

• What is the process for requesting fingerprint cards by mail from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE)?

  If you need fingerprint cards for submission to the FDLE, you can request them by mail. Write a letter to the FDLE including your full name, mailing address, the reason for your request (e.g., background check, employment, licensing), and your contact details. Send your request to:

  Florida Department of Law Enforcement
  Attn: Criminal History Services
  PO Box 1489
  Tallahassee, FL 32302
  Phone: (850) 410-8161
  Email: bgc@fdle.state.fl.us

  After processing, FDLE will mail the fingerprint cards to the address you provided. You can then have your fingerprints taken at a local police department or certified fingerprinting provider, such as Certifix, and submit the completed cards along with any required forms and fees to the appropriate agency.

  Looking for a faster option?
  Instead of using fingerprint cards, you can take advantage of Certifix’s nationwide Live Scan services to submit your fingerprints electronically and directly to FDLE, which speeds up the process significantly. To use this faster method, visit the Certifix service selection page and choose the Florida Live Scan Submission (FDLE) option.

• Where can I get fingerprint cards in Florida?

  You can get fingerprint cards in Florida by enrolling online through Certifix’s FD-258 Fingerprint Card Printing Service. This service allows you to have your fingerprints captured and printed onto an official FD-258 card, which will be mailed directly to you. The card is accepted by most state and federal agencies for background checks, licensing, immigration, and other applications. To get started, visit the Certifix service selection page and choose the FD-258 Fingerprint Card Printing option.